News
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Fiji Customs Seizes Undeclared Cargo in Vatukoula
A routine inspection uncovered a shipment of undeclared goods, spanning heavy-duty industrial components to tobacco products. The discovery underscores ongoing enforcement efforts and a push for stricter border controls to protect revenue and fair trade.
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Legal Veteran Aruna Prasad Joins Fiji National Provident Fund Board
Aruna Prasad, a seasoned magistrate and long-time legal luminary, joins the Fiji National Provident Fund Board. With four decades in law and governance across private practice, prosecution, and the judiciary, her appointment signals a strengthened focus on governance and safeguarding members’ retirement savings from June 2025.
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Could Fiji’s spiritual beliefs curb its diabetes crisis?
Could Fiji’s spiritual beliefs be the missing link in tackling a rising diabetes crisis? A northern medical officer argues that health talks must weave physical, social, financial, and spiritual factors—and even borrow lessons from Japan’s school-driven wellness approach—to spark lasting change across generations.
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Teen Earns School’s Top Academic Award With Family Support
A 13-year-old student earns the school’s top academic award, surprised and grateful for the unwavering support of family and a guiding teacher. Her story highlights late-night study, dedication, and the belief that goals are within reach.
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Head Boy Tops Vunimono High with 377/400, Credits Faith and Family
Anishchal Chand Sharma, the head boy of Vunimono High School, has claimed the school’s top academic honor with a stellar performance. His journey—driven by faith, hard work, and a steadfast support system—highlights how dedication and community can spark remarkable achievement.
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Women at the Forefront of Northern Division’s Aquaculture Push
Across the Northern Division, a week-long initiative is advancing sustainable aquaculture, boosting farmer support, and empowering women in the sector. From pond developments to fry distributions and targeted feeding, the effort aims to strengthen livelihoods and local food security through community fish farming.
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New Tractor Sparks Growth for Fiji Farming Cooperative
An 18-member farming cooperative marks a milestone with the arrival of a brand-new tractor, funded through a government mechanization program. The development hints at bigger changes for rural farming, from saving time to opening doors for the next generation of farmers.
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Nine-Month Burglary Sentence Sparks Debate on Home Security in Fiji
Recent court rulings spotlight burglary, assault, and alleged fraud, underscoring the community’s ongoing quest for security and accountability. A nine‑month sentence for burglary sits alongside a suspended assault conviction, with other cases probing fraud and an arson acquittal. These decisions highlight the challenges of delivering justice while safeguarding victims and the rights of the accused.
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Labasa Airport Visit: Fiji Police Chief Urges Students to Embrace Education, Discipline and Respect
During a memorable outing at Labasa Airport, students hear a powerful message on education, discipline, and respect from Fiji’s Commissioner of Police. A moment that nudges Fiji’s youth toward wiser choices and a brighter future.
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AOSIS Pushes for 1.5°C Ambition and Grant-Based Climate Finance Ahead of COP30
Vulnerable island nations rally for a bolder climate push ahead of COP30, insisting the 1.5°C target must be safeguarded and fossil fuels phased out faster. They urge grant-based financing and stronger action on methane, renewables, and nature-based solutions—core stakes for small island communities.
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New By-Laws Bring iTaukei Villages Into Municipal Boundaries, Expanding Local Elections
Sweeping reforms are reshaping the 2026 Local Government Elections: new by-laws bring iTaukei villages into the municipal fold, expanding who can participate. With ward adjustments—including the Nadi Town Wards Extension Order 2025—and a November 2025 gazette, these changes promise stronger, more inclusive local representation.
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Kanacea Island Trust Fund Distribution Formula: Who Benefits?
Cabinet approves a new distribution formula for the Kanacea Island Trust Fund, reshaping how resources are shared among traditional groups and key stakeholders. The plan emphasizes transparency and long‑term welfare, with allocations to Yavusa Kanacea, Yavusa Vuna, Tui Kanacea, Tui Vuna, and a government share that includes a provision for the Tui Cakau hereditary holder,…
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Fiji Unveils Digital Democracy Tools to Put Voter Information in Every Household
Fiji unveils IDEE and a new suite of digital platforms to bring electoral information and democratic resources right to every household. Aimed at closing information gaps and boosting participation, these tools offer easier access to laws, dates, and voter services—wherever you are. A fresh chapter in Fiji’s democracy is unfolding.
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Referendum Bill 2025 Could Turn Polling Day into a Public Holiday
Could a new Referendum Bill 2025 reshape how the nation votes on its future? It envisions a public-holiday polling day and clear rules for who can participate, plus when Parliament can trigger a nationwide referendum—all aimed at strengthening direct democracy.
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Fiji Advances Aviation Reform with Unified Civil Aviation Bill 2026
Fiji is moving to overhaul its aging aviation laws by consolidating decades of regulation into a single, modern Civil Aviation Bill. Backed by international audits and a push for safer skies and stronger oversight, the plan invites public input as it aligns with regional standards.
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Fiji Airline Maintenance Certificate Expires Amid Safety Review
Fiji’s aviation regulator has taken a decisive safety step that could reshape how domestic flights are maintained and trained for. The move underscores the high-stakes balance between strict standards and keeping island connectivity safe and reliable.
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Fiji Referendum Bill 2025 Aims to Make Polling Day a Public Holiday
Fiji moves toward a more participatory democracy with the Referendum Bill 2025, including a public-holiday polling day to boost access. The bill aims to ensure safe, fair voting with clear procedures and stronger protections for voters, while laying the groundwork for nationwide referendums and transparent results.
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Fiji Prepares Local Government Act Overhaul as 2025 Amendment Draft Heads for Public Consultation
Fiji moves toward a modernized local governance framework as a key review of the Local Government Act is approved. A 2025 draft amendment, paired with broad community consultation, promises to reshape how councils operate and how residents are heard.
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Fiji Flood Risk Tied to Drains Blocked by Litter
Blocked drains from everyday rubbish are fueling floods and road damage during heavy rains. Officials urge cleaner waste disposal and an end to illegal dumping to protect roads and driver safety this wet season. Small, everyday actions can make a big difference.
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Fiji Methodist Church Launches 1538 Helpline for Women and Families
Faith in action takes a tangible form with a bold new helpline for women and families. Trained professionals offer confidential listening, guidance, and referrals to those in crisis—backed by a network of churches, partners, and communities. A quiet revolution in pastoral care, this initiative aims to bring hope and support to those facing hardship.
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Mead Road Estate: Six Blocks Declared Unsafe, Tenants to Be Relocated
Age takes its toll on a cluster of housing blocks, with engineers declaring six Mead Road blocks structurally unsafe and prompting a coordinated relocation for dozens of families. A multi‑agency response is underway, focused on safety, support, and a humane transition.
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Fiji Journalists Targeted as Courtroom Security Comes Under Scrutiny
An alarming incident outside a Suva courtroom has spotlighted rising threats to journalists in Fiji. The Fiji Media Association says this is part of a troubling pattern and is urging stronger courthouse security and police presence to better protect those covering the justice system.
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Parliament Prorogued as Stage Is Set for State Opening and New Agenda
Parliament pauses as the Speaker announces prorogation, signaling a transitional moment ahead of the State Opening and a fresh government agenda. Amid ongoing debates and urgent matters, the nation braces for the next chapter of governance and policy direction.
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Fiji Upgrades Infant Hearing Screening with New V500 G2 System
Fiji takes a major step forward in infant hearing care with a state-of-the-art screening upgrade. The new Vivosonic system enables faster, more accurate AABR and DPOAE tests, helping more babies in the Western Division receive early detection and care. A collaborative effort promises brighter starts for Fiji’s youngest ears.
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Fiji Court of Appeal Overturns Murder Convictions, Imposes Nine-Year Manslaughter Sentences
Three men connected to a 2012 fatal attack in Nadi have had murder convictions overturned and their sentences cut, after the Fiji Court of Appeal challenges key legal standards like recklessness and joint enterprise. A ruling with big implications for how justice is measured in long-running cases.
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Fiji Launches Campaign to End Diabetes Stigma Among Youth
Diabetes Fiji Inc. launches a bold campaign to erase the stigma surrounding Type 1 diabetes, focusing on Fiji’s young people. Through the Young Diabetes Fiji program, the message is clear: understanding, peer support, and inclusive communities over judgment and misconception.
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Electrocution Suspected in Navua Truck Driver’s Death on Queens Highway
Tragedy on Queens Highway as a truck driver is found dead and investigators work to uncover what happened. The unfolding inquiry raises questions about road safety and what can be done to prevent such incidents.
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Fiji Upgrades Infant Hearing Screening with V500 G2 System
An upgrade to Fiji’s infant hearing screening brings faster, more accurate results for newborns and at-risk babies—made possible through international support. The new system promises earlier detection and stronger development outcomes for Fiji’s youngest learners.
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Unity Fiji Objects to Rival Party’s Plan to Use ‘People First’ By-Line
Branding clashes flare as a new party seeks to adopt Unity Fiji’s by-line—sparking a sharp rebuke from Unity Fiji’s leadership. The dispute centers on originality, democratic norms, and how a party’s identity can shape voters’ perceptions.
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Fiji Airports appoints two leaders to boost safety and maintenance
Two new leaders are stepping into Fiji’s airport network, blending international expertise with local know-how. Their appointments signal a bold move toward safety, maintenance excellence, and aviation readiness across the network.